Golfer Pacific NZ – June 2025

pgueorgieff@yahoo.co.nz

IHow do you swing a golf club?

By Paul Gueorgieff Editor, Golfer Pacific NZ

f any golf learner shuffled their feet like Scottie Scheffler they would immediately be told to stop shuffling their feet.

You’ll never be a golfer if you keep shuffling your feet, I can imagine the learner being told.

So what do Scheffler’s advisors tell him? I would bet there would be no mention of his shuffling feet.

Scheffler is the world’s No 1 ranked player. He has won three major championships — The Masters in 2022 and 2024 and the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club in North Carolina last month.

He has won 16 times on the PGA Tour, four times on the Eu-

ropean Tour and last year won an Olympic gold medal. He is only 28 years old.

So how can someone shuffle their feet like Scottie does and yet be so good?

I don’t have any answers but it perhaps underlines everybody has their own swing. There is no one way to swing a golf stick.

Scheffler’s shuffle is not minor. It’s a serious shuffle and you sometimes wonder how he, sometimes, doesn’t fall over.

I recently watched a comic video which mimicked Scheffler’s shuffle and the final image was that of the player’s feet having completely turned backwards. It made me laugh but it also amplified that there is no such thing as a perfect swing. When you are watching the best golfers

in the world on the television they all have their different swings. One of the oddest swings of recent times was that of Jim Furyk. He won the 2003 US Open and has 17 wins on the PGA Tour but when he makes a swing it looks like he is casting a fishing rod.  It shouldn’t work. But it does. And what about Furyk’s golf grip? Furyk overlaps two fingers of his right hand, and always has done. Astonishing.

What about Bryson DeChambeau? He is known for his outstanding power and the way he smashes the ball with all his might.

DeChambeau uses an extra thick grip which should make it well-nigh impossible to generate all that power. But the most notable thing about his swing

is that there is hardly any wrist break. And that should also mitigate against him hitting the ball as far as he does.

Do you remember John Daly? Daly turned golf upside down when he arrived at Crooked Stick and won the 1991 PGA Championship with a display of driving the likes of which we had never witnessed before. And he also won The Open in 1995 at St Andrews in Scotland.

Yet his backswing was enormous, his driver passing way, way, way beyond parallel at the top of a never-ending backswing. But he always maintained perfect poise and balance.

There are many more examples of odd swings of the best golfers in the world. So how can they be so good?

Ryan Fox secures starts on the PGA Tour for the next two years

By Paul Gueorgieff Golfer Pacific editor

There were two important factors to the win of Ryan Fox in the United States last month.

The first is obviously the prize money of $US720,000. That’s about $1.2 million in New Zealand dollars.

But the second factor is security. His win in the $US4 million Myrtle Beach Classic in South Carolina has secured him a start on the PGA Tour for the next two years and Fox said that was everything.

“That’s the biggest thing that comes out of it,’’ Fox said on Radio New Zealand the day after the win.

“To have two years out on the PGA Tour and no stress about keeping a card for a little while, and some certainty about what we’re doing as a family, where we’re going to be based — all of that stuff, that’s huge.”

A bonus from the win was a start in the PGA Championship a week later at the Quail Hollow Club at Charlotte in North Carolina. Fox would go on to finish 28th and earn an additional $US115,000 ($NZ195,000).

His win ended some moderate form. In 10 previous starts this year on the PGA Tour his best finished had been 20th.

Fox agreed his time on the PGA Tour had been trying.

“I haven’t transitioned probably as well as I would have liked over to the PGA Tour,’’ he told the PGA Tour website.

“It was a tough year last year. I managed to just keep my card. It’s been a scratchy start this year as well.

“But I always, deep down, felt like I could compete with the guys out here — just haven’t been able to put it together.”

Fox’s win was big for New Zealand. The previous time a New Zealander won on the PGA Tour was 10 years earlier in 2015 when Danny Lee won the Greenbrier Classic in West Virginia.

Ironically the wins of Fox and Lee both needed a playoff

to determine the winner and Fox did his in dramatic style.

His tee shot on the first extra hole went left and he had to play a draw with his second which finished just off the green but 53 feet from the hole.

Fox was one of three in the playoff and the other two were in much better shape after their second shots.

Harry Higgs from the United States was 30 feet from the pin for two while Mackenzie Hughes of Canada hit an excellent second to be 17 feet away.

doesn’t break that much.

“So I just kind of aimed straight at it, and I hit the spot I wanted to hit. To be honest, it never looked like it was going anywhere else, and the rest of it is a bit of a blur from there.”

Fox had to temper his celebration as Hughes and Higgs still had putts to extend the playoff but both missed narrowly.

Fox had rounds of 65, 70, 68 and 66 on the par 71 course to finish at 15 under par.

He would have been thankful for much more consistency on the last day when he had five birdies and no bogeys.

The previous day he shot three under par but a brilliant nine birdies were spoiled by six bogeys.

Fox also would have been thankful to be in a playoff.

Then came perhaps the shot of Fox’s career to date. He chipped from the side of the green and even while the ball still had several feet to go, Fox raised an arm in celebration as he could see the ball was headed for the hole, which it did.

Fox said he had an advantage of putting on a similar line when playing the same hole in regulation play.

“I had a really similar line in regulation and missed the putt right,” Fox said.

“My caddie, Dean (Smith), said to me, remember, this

Hughes had a one shot lead coming to the last hole but pulled his tee shot into the trees, had to chip out and had to settle for a bogey which lead to a three-way playoff.

Fox used to be referred to as the son of All Black legend Grant Fox but he has now established himself as a top golfer.

The 38-year-old has won three times on the DP World Tour, including the flagship PGA Championship in England in 2023, and has climbed as high as No 23 in world rankings.

But prior to last month’s win his ranking had slipped to 119 but he was back up to 71 after the win at Myrtle Beach.

Ryan Fox poses with his family and the trophy after winning the Myrtle Beach Classic 2025 at Dunes Golf & Beach Club in South Carolina last month. (Photo credit: Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Cooper Moore wins Asia-Pacific Junior Championship with gritty final round

Cooper Moore’s burgeoning career has reached another height after he won the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) Junior Championship title at Hong Kong Golf Club last month.

In a remarkable come-from-behind victory, Moore battled the weather elements and a strong field to emerge the champion by two strokes, two ahead of Vietnam’s Nguyen Tuan Anh after birdies on the final two holes of the three-round tournament.

Half an hour of a rain delay on the final day was enough for puddles to form on the greens and fairways, with Moore showing fortitude to remain focused in the testing conditions.

The 16-year-old from Canterbury, who had relinquished the tournament lead on the 18th green on day two with a double-bogey six after an errant drive went out of bounds, displayed mental as well as physical strength in round

three after pushing two early birdie putts wide and scoring a triple-bogey on the fourth hole.

Making the turn five shots off the lead, Moore said he reminded himself that anything can happen in golf.

“I felt I still had a chance and needed to be patient,” Moore recalled afterwards.

His back nine run was faultless, remaining bogey-free with four birdies, including birdies on 17 and 18 that would secure him the title in emphatic fashion as the rain descended on the Hong Kong Golf Club’s Old Course.

Speaking after his round, Moore said he tried to recall his previous back nine form at the tournament and avoid making high numbers.

“I made bogey on nine and was five back, there was quite a bit there [to make up] but I’ve played some of my best golf all week on the back nine, found myself in contention on the 18th

tee and just went with it.

“Didn’t really change too much with my game plan just middle of the green most of the time, just trying to avoid trouble hoping that the weather may come in and the other guys may struggle a bit.”

He said a slight internal battle was required after a shaky start to the final round.

“I didn’t get off to the best start, missed a few short putts on one and two then made triple on four and I was a bit, like, ah need to sort of wake up a bit but then found myself … guess it came down to that back nine.”

On the final hole of the tournament, Moore had about 130m to the flag with his second shot.

He took his pitching wedge, hit a dart-like shot to four feet and rolled in the birdie putt to finish at nine under par for the tournament.

“It was dead at the pin; I was a bit

blocked out by the trees on the left. I hit a little drawing pitching wedge and yeah, it looked perfect the whole way.”

Congratulations not only Cooper Moore on his title-winning effort, but fellow Golf New Zealand academy member Emma Zheng on her commendable performance in placing 16th in the girls’ division of the tournament in a highly competitive field and difficult conditions.

The experience of teeing it up at an internationally acclaimed course against some of the best junior golfers in the region is invaluable, it will stand her in great stead as she continues her rise as a talented athlete.

Zheng can be proud of her efforts representing New Zealand in Hong Kong to help the team take ninth place in the mixed teams division.

Canterbury golfer Cooper Moore at the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation Junior Championship in Hong Kong last month. Moore birdied his last two holes to win by two shots. Photo credit: Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation.

Cooper Moore plays a tee shot at the Asia-Pacific Junior Championship in Hong Kong last month.

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Extraordinary PGA Championship

By Neville Idour

In the end Scottie Scheffler emphasised his world number one ranking in winning his third major title.

For various reasons this major failed to excite for most of the four days. Scheffler’s dominance was only threatened briefly on the final day as his five shot lead evaporated and Jon Rahm drew level on nine under par after nine holes.

Then the prospect of an exciting finish looked likely. A birdie on the 10th restored Scheffler’s lead and Rahm’s five shot meltdown on the last three holes put paid to any challenge.

Scheffler’s play was on another plain for the most part as he marched to victory in a completely self centred and absorbed fashion. Almost as if he was playing on a course devoid of spectators, as he barely raised a finger, if that on occasion, acknowledging applause.

As for the 12 kilogram 70 centimetre tall famous silver Wanamaker Trophy, when asked where it would go, he said it “will go in my golf room where all my crap goes and all my golf junk and some trophies.” He also said it won’t be nicely presented. Nice one Scottie.

One of the keys to his success is his longtime coach Randy Smith who has been his guide and  mentor since he was seven years old. There is no changing this or that or changing coaches at the drop of a hat. It is just a continual quest for improving what is already ingrained. The results are there to for all to see.

Probably the final five holes in the third round were the decisive period in his victory as he scored eagle, birdie, par, birdie and birdie. The other factor was the notorious Green Mile last three holes where overall Scheffler was one over par, Rahm was five over par, while Bryson DeChambeau was three over par.

Rahm, to his credit, reflected with admirable positivity about his overall effort. Even during his travails on the Green Mile he maintained his decorum even managing the odd rueful smile. He had mixed feelings but knew he had played better in some time and his form was reassuring for the Ryder Cup.

“It was really close,’’ Rahmn said.

“It’s been a while since I had that much fun on a golf course, but yeah,

the last three holes are a tough pill to swallow right now. I am as hungry as anyone for a major championship.”

For DeChambeau it was a case of missed chances. A tie for second was no poor effort at all.

“I’m baffled right now,’’ DeChambeau recalled.

“I drove it as good as I can and gave myself a good chance. (He led the field in strokes gained off the tee}. The Green Mile did it to me yesterday (the Saturday) and today. The edge was missing and I missed some putts, but that’s golf. It was a good fight, good battle, take a lot from it.”

In fact most of the drama throughout the week was for mainly the wrong reasons. Where to begin?

Rory McIlroy, who fans were expecting to be in the hunt, was never sighted on the leaderboard after a poor start. However he still managed to create a stir.

After being at his happy garrulous best at the pre-tournament press conference he avoided his media obligations each of the four days of the event, leaving the course immediately after his final round. Although he did

pat Scheffler on the back as he walked past McIlroy’s vehicle in the car park on the way to the first tee.

McIlroy came in for much criticism. Kyle Porter of Normal Sports website said: “It was bizarre and deserves criticism and was an abdication of responsibility as one of the greats.”

McIlroy had also been forced to change his driver before the first round as it was deemed non conforming. Was that part of his no shows? Scheffler also had to change a non conforming driver.

Golf Monthly journalist Barry Plummer, who has experienced upwards of 100 majors, rated the 2025 Masters the greatest of all time, an opinion I would take issue with, but rated the 2025 PGA Championship as the worst in history. Strong words indeed. Just two world top 10 players finishing in the top 25 backed his argument.

The decision after a summer’s worth of rain in the days previously, that there would be no lift, clean and place, did not go down well. However this is normal for majors where the game is supposed to be hard.

Mud balls became an issue. Early on

we had Shane Lowry in a frustrated profanity outburst after being denied relief with his ball in a pitch mark. He slammed his club into the ground after chunking his shot and shouted a profanity at “this place”.

His bogey didn’t help as he missed the cut by one shot. Then in the first round we saw a huge rules discussion when both Scheffler and Xander Schaufele hit rainbow hooks into the water on the par four 16th hole. Both blamed mud balls. Veteran Padraig Harrington had a different perspective. He said “Dealing with mud on the ball is part of the skill required in the game. Deal with it.” That’s telling the moaners.

Wyndham Clark also put on a show after a wayward tee shot as he, without looking, launched his driver behind him into the sponsor’s board. It was fortunate he didn’t kill one of the players and caddies beginning to walk down the fairway after his missile launch. Not satisfied, he picked up the club and launched it towards another board to the left of the tee.

Clark also didn’t impress when playing his second shot in the first round to the par four 16th hole. Conditions were perfect with just a light breeze. He set up,

deliberately addressing the ball four, yes, four times with no distractions before he hit the ball. Maybe it is time for some ruling that limits the number of times you can address the ball before playing the shot.

Heckling also reared its ugly head again when Brooks Koepka was struggling in the second round before missing the cut.

“That’s what guaranteed money does to you Brooks,” shouted one fan as Koepka walked to the next tee. Koepka said twice: “You want to come down here and say it” as he moved on.

Playing partner Rickie Fowler had copped it at the Cognizant Classic when a putt missed, but shot back “that’s why you’re in the stands.” McIlroy was told to “blame your caddie” when he missed a putt at the Genesis Invitational and told the spectator to “shut the f*** up”.

The other real annoyance was the television coverage. The incessant background noise which made it difficult to hear the commentators clearly, was appalling. As were the ridiculous leaderboard showings or in some cases lack of. We were constantly shown the top 10 players scores. Talk about overkill. But too bad if you were following Ryan Fox or anyone outside the top 10. I think my

margin of error is very small but in 381 minutes of coverage only maybe four or five leaderboards that showed more than the top 10 scores were shown. Ridiculous. There is simply no excuse for this one extreme to the other. Take a lesson from LIV Golf which constantly runs a lengthy leaderboard. Or even the DP World Tour does it better.

The lack of star power on the leaderboard was evident. Of the top 16 leaders going into the weekend only two ranked in the top 45 world rankings. The average world ranking of the other 14 was 80.9.

The Green Mile undid a lot of players. One group was collectively 17 over par in the first two rounds. Ouch. Jhonattan Vegas, the first round leader, was one player to hang in for a career best major finish tied fifth. Joaquin Niemann likewise had his best major finish tied eighth.

Kiwi Ryan Fox had a fine first round to be amongst the leaders and backed it up with a par second round to stay in the top 10. He faded over the weekend but still managed a useful 28th. He managed 16 birdies which matched several players who finished ahead of him. Even when he was in the top few during the first two rounds we saw very few of his shots. There were other leading players

too that  were rarely seen. It was frustrating viewing.

The admission price was a steep $US380. But this included all food and non alcoholic beverages in the on course markets. Yay. Free food.

Maybe we should end this overview with a look at Scheffler’s playing record for the past four seasons with his record since the 2023 US Open under two years ago in brackets. He has had 82 (39) starts for 18 wins (12) and 45 (24) top five finishes. Plus 30 top 10s in his last 39 starts. He had has three (2) major wins and two (1) Players’ Championship wins. One Olympic gold medal and four (0) missed cuts. He is Mr Consistency, that is the key to his success. His strokes gained statistics this season are tops. First in tee to green. Second off the tee. First in approach to the green. Fifteenth in putting. He has been labelled as boring. However his golfing prowess can never be considered boring. For his admirers that can only be exciting. As a personality he does not seem interested in connecting with the fans on course and that is his choice, and that is why some consider him boring. One thing is for sure the golf world is his oyster. Will he continue to feast on them?

Byron Nelson deserves better

By Neville Idour

The Byron Nelson Classic, now the C J Cup Byron Nelson Classic, was always one of the feature events on the PGA Tour calendar as befits one of the greatest all time players.

Some of his achievements have never been bettered and probably never will. With that in mind the field for the 2025 event might have been one of the weakest ever in the tournament’s 81year history.

The event was first played in 1944 at Lakewood Country Club in Dallas, Texas, when Nelson himself, a Texan raised in Fort Worth, won.

Apparently the event is the lead-

ing fundraiser for charity on the PGA Tour having raised more than $US143 million. For much of its history it was the only PGA Tour event named after a professional golfer, until the Arnold Palmer Invitational was born and they remain the only two. The Nelson event is set to remain as the C J Group, that replaced A T & T as title sponsor in 2024, signed a 10-year agreement.

One would have thought this would have been one of the top tier signature events boasting $US20 million prizemoney, but no it was effectively second tier with $US9.9 million. Hence most of the top 100 world ranked golfers gave it a miss.

Only two top 20 players were there

and finished in the top 40 — they being Scottie Scheffler and Si Woo Kim. Extending that, just four top 50 players finished in the top 40. Jordan Spieth and Sam Burns were the other two.

The big drawcard Scottie Scheffler was there, choosing to miss the $US20 million Truist signature event the following week. He said he wanted to prepare for the PGA Championship. However one has to ask was he just hunting for his first win of the year in a much weaker field. Whatever the case he maintained a detached non-engaging persona throughout as if he was playing with no fans or spectators present.

Interestingly at one point when he did not acknowledge crowd applause

after excellent birdies yet again, the commentators had a discussion about his approach saying “I would love to ask Scottie how he feels about golf” and “does he love it or just winning?”  He may be the nicest guy but he sure doesn’t seem interested in connecting with the fans. When one thinks of all the world number one players who have preceded him it is difficult to think of one who exuded less personality with fans.

Byron Nelson’s tournament deserves more than what was provided at the 2025 event. We look at Byron Nelson’s place in the pantheon of golfing greats elsewhere in this issue.

Byron Nelson: A legendary champion NEWS

Nelson, on the right, winner of the National PGA Tourney at Dayton, Ohio, receives the huge cup from PGA Tourney president Ed Dudley (centre) while Sam Byrd, runner-up, looks on. Nelson defeated Byrd in the finals in what was the fifth time in the last six PGA tourneys that he has played the championship match. PGA Tourney was renamed in 1975 to what is now the PGA Tour. Photo credit: Getty Images.

By Neville Idour

Texan-born American professional golfer Byron Nelson is without doubt one of the all time greatest, even though he only played professionally between 1935 and 1946.

He retired from full time competitive play aged 34 to become a rancher. Some of his achievements are unlikely to ever be beaten. He and two other golf legends, Ben Hogan and Sam Snead, were born within seven months of each other in 1912.

However, Nelson’s early life was no bed of roses. He was brought up on the family cotton farm helping in the fields. Boll weevil devastated cotton crops for the first 20 years from 1900 and the family battled poverty and illness for a few years.

Exposed to rabies, the young Nelson spent almost a month in hospital, then contracted typhoid fever, lost almost half his body weight and nearly died.

He recalled: “I had a strong sense of gratitude after surviving and was happy to have got my life back.”

His golfing career began at age 12 when he got some work caddying at nearby Glen Garden golf course. It was not easy as large numbers of young ones, including Hogan, had the same desire. However Nelson’s attitude and behaviour when it came to club standards was without peer amongst the other youths and he quickly became a popular caddy.

This allowed him to play some golf and within two years he was showing plenty of ability as he grew to nearly six feet tall, although ``as thin as a rake’’. He gained membership at Glen Garden in 1928 and played in matches against local clubs where he competed against the likes of Ho-

gan and the many other talented players. Hogan would begin playing professionally for money aged just 17 but Nelson left it until he was 20. It wasn’t until Nelson lost his job that he decided to pay his entry fee for the 1932 Texacarna Open where he finished third and banked $US75. This was enough to suggest there was a future for Nelson as a professional golfer.

His timing would coincide with the arrival of steel shafts which altered the approach of players. With less flex it allowed much more powerful swings. Renowned instructor Harvey Pennick helped Nelson enjoy some good results through 1934 and early 1935. Good enough, in fact, to earn him an invitation to play in the second playing of Bobby Jones’ new on the scene Augusta tournament. Nelson impressed, finishing ninth.

The United States Golf Association developed a machine for testing equipment and called it Iron Byron. However Nelson’s game needed work and he fully committed to improving, particularly his at times wayward driving. He was able to develop a reliable and repeatable swing which gave him a very dependable accurate long game.

His first major triumph at the Masters in 1937 came after a blistering opening round of 66 which remained a first round record for some time. His new swing and the steel shafts enhanced his power game. He was able to hit every green in regulation and all the par five greens in two shots. He also played in his first Ryder Cup that year.

The year 1939 was a big one for Nelson with a US Open win and three other PGA Tour wins and a scoring average of 70.02. However the second world war intervened and led to the Ryder Cup being postponed and The Open Championship postponed until 1946. But golf still carried on in the United States. Nelson won three times in 1940, including his first PGA Championship, then three more wins in 1941.

In 1942 there were still 21 tournaments played on the PGA Tour. The ninth Masters was a highlight when Nelson finished tied with great rival Hogan on eight under par. Nelson started the 18 hole playoff the next day with a double bogey but played the remaining 17 holes in five under par to win by one shot. There were few tournaments in 1943 with many top players away in service during the war.

Nelson was turned down for military service due to a blood clotting condition. However instead of active service he was asked to play in a series of exhibition matches to raise money for the humanitarian organisation Red Cross amongst other organisations. He played in over 100 such events between 1942 and 1944 raising large amounts of money, entertaining troops and often appeared with star entertainers Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.

In 1944 there were 23 PGA events and Nelson won an amazing 10 of them. But this was just a taste of what 1945 would bring. There were 30 events on the 1945

PGA schedule. Snead, Hogan and many other top players returned to play that year. Snead won the first event, the Los Angles Open, then Nelson took over and went on a victory run unlikely to ever be matched let alone beaten.

He would win 11 consecutive times and 18 in total during 1945. Add to that seven seconds meaning he finished top two in all but five events that season. Remarkable.

His scoring average of 68.33 was only bettered by Tiger Woods in 2000. There are not enough superlatives. Nelson said: “My swing was so familiar to me that I rarely had to make an adjustment.” His drive for success was fuelled by his ambition to retire, even at just 33 years old.

Late in the season his wife Louise revealed to reporters he was trying to earn enough money to buy a ranch and retire from the endless routine and circus of pro golf. However he did compete in 1946, winning six times, but was disappointed not to win a major championship, losing in a playoff for the US Open. He was tired of golf and wanted an end to it. So he sent his golf clubs back to manufacturer MacGregor to hang on to until he asked for them.

Earlier that year he bought 630 acres of ranch land at Raonoke in Texas where he lived until death in 2006. He said he had no regrets retiring at just 34 years old.

“I loved the ranch, I felt free, a different kind of freedom.”

One can only wonder what he might have achieved had he not lived through the war years and retired so young. These thoughts are amplified by his success even after retirement.

He did continue an involvement with golf, as a commentator and also as a mentor to such players as Tom Watson and Payne Stewart and playing on rare occasions. He finished second in the 1947 Masters and won the 1951 Bing Crosby Pro-Am after not having played a tournament for years.

In 1955 the Nelsons holidayed in

France. The 43 year old Nelson entered the French Open while his wife Louise went on a sight seeing tour and incredibly, he won it. The first American to do so since Walter Hagen in 1920. He was the non playing Ryder Cup captain in 1965.

Looking at his truncated career there are so many unanswered questions and what ifs, yet at the same time so many highlights and accolades.

He  won five majors, but missed out on so many opportunities. Fourteen majors were cancelled during the war years. Had he not retired at 34 years old when players are in their prime he might have had another 40 or 50 majors under his belt. Who knows how many he may have won. The mind boggles at what he may have achieved. But Nelson said: “I felt I had no more worlds to conquer.”

His career record is well worth feasting on. He played in 287 events and missed the cut just 11 times. At one stage he made 113 consecutive cuts. He won 64 events including 52 PGA Tour wins. He had 33 seconds, 32 thirds, 152 top fives and 206 top 10’s. Winnings were $US190,256.

His legacy is one to admire and rejoice in. Definitely one of the sporting greats, not just golfing greats. He could have won so much more but was content with what he had achieved. He was always a humble winner and gracious in defeat. Probably most importantly he was able to put golf in perspective and see the importance of a meaningful and varied life. He was perhaps best known as a true gentleman of the game of golf. His kindness and dedication to his community won the admiration of all who knew or encountered him.

As he was known “Lord Byron”, he was inducted into the PGA hall of fame in 1953 and the World Golf hall of fame in 1974. He was aged 94 when he died in 2006. His place in golf history is secure with his remarkable records. Thank you Byron Nelson for the memories.

Byron Nelson drives off the first tee taking the honorary tee shot before the start of the 58th US Masters at the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia in 1994. (Photo credit: David Cannon/Getty Images)

Byron

Where the coast meets the course: A golf journey through Northland

By Peter Thornton

They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting a different result.

After experiencing the trip-of-a-lifetime to the winterless north this time last year, we decided to do it all again in the hope that history would repeat itself.  It couldn’t be just as good second time around, could it?  The short answer to that is yes. Absolutely yes.

This time, making the trip were Simon “Blocka” Roche, Daniel Markham and Wade Smith, who was making his long-awaited debut in one of our boys’ golf trips.

Smithy – a former age group national tennis representative – is a natural sportsman and loves nothing more than a golf trip away with the lads. Smithy and I are old mates. We first met at Murray’s Bay Intermediate in Auckland when we were 11 years old, and it is great to still be good friends 35 years later.

He plays off a 14 handicap and would set the standard for the weekend.

The format was simple, we teamed up in pairs, with the combined best stableford points winning the hole. Blocka and I would play off 20 handicaps while Daniel was handy on a 30.

The losing pair would buy two rounds of beer and hear about their loss until the next match was underway. The golf wasn’t always of the highest standard, but the banter was brilliant.

WHERE THE TEE MEETS THE SEA

After picking up the Wellington-based lads from Auckland Airport we made the three-and-a-half-hour journey north to Waitangi.  We were running late for our 1.30pm tee time, and with the sun going down at 5.30pm, we were fighting the clock to get 18 holes in.

But the team at Waitangi were accommodating and we were on the first tee in carts in a matter of moments. Smithy and I teamed up for round one and we got off to a handy start when he opened with two nonchalant pars.

There are many great holes in the tree-lined opening nine holes – one of them is the par three sixth. Blocka got his team back in the game with a par, but our bogeys were enough to win the hole.

The magic at Waitangi happens on the back nine where you have a panoramic view of Paihia Harbour.

We were three up heading down the par five 11th when Smithy hit his shot of the day – a pitching wedge from 108m to four feet from the hole. It was a special shot on the signature hole at Waitangi that you will be talking about after over your pint.

I never get tired of playing this stretch, holes 11 to 15 hug the coastline. It’s a good combination of great design and spectacular scenery.

We held on to claim a 4 and 3 win

and everyone had enough moments to look forward to the main event on day two.

I had an up and down day – quite literally. On the par four 14th I hit a six iron from a hanging lie and tumbled over. As I was going down, I knew that moment would be talked about for the rest of the trip, and so it was.

“You had a pretty good day, Pete, you stayed on your feet all day,” was the low bar for improvement from that point on. I did make three pars to finish the day to head to Kauri Cliffs with some much-needed confidence.

We ended day one by hitting the local pub for a burger and a beer, and a second-place finish in their Thursday night quiz.

THE MAGIC OF KAURI CLIFFS

For many people, playing at the famed Kauri Cliffs is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

It doesn’t get any better than this –the views, the challenge, the customer service and the quality of the course are all superb.

During your round, walking on this hallowed turf, you have a feeling that you must make the most of it, because you might not be back here again.

Last year when we were driving out of the gates, all of the boys were tired, happy and sore.  We played this worldclass layout in May and got off to a reasonable start – making a few pars and a birdie on the front – but as we stood on

the 10th tee the wind grew in strength. It brought us crashing back down to Earth.

As the All Blacks would say, losing the final test match of the year is like a stone underneath your beach towel. You think about it all summer until you get the chance to play there again.

Driving down that dusty dirt road, with fields full of sheep on one side and a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean on the other, it is a quintessential Kiwi experience that must make American visitors to this property think they are in another world.

When that first view of the golf course is unveiled it’s a sight that gets the heart racing.

The signature match saw Smithy and Blocka – old mates from ages ago –team up to take on Daniel and myself.

Standing on the practice green in front of the grandiose clubhouse, there was not a breath of wind, and it was a balmy 19 degrees at 10am. Conditions were perfect.

After a good warm up on the practice range, I hit a poor opening tee shot into the right rough. I came up with a great second shot, with a rescue from 180m to 12 feet for birdie. My putt lipped out, but I knew it was going to be a good day.

There are so many good holes to savour here and the first one that takes your breath away is the par five fourth. It is as brutal as it is beautiful. The rolling waves crashing on the beach in the

Arriving at the Waitangi Golf Club is always a special feeling. It is one of the most affordable courses in the region.

A stunning view of Kauri Cliffs. This is the par five eighth which is called Warrior. It’s a 451-metre hole off the white tees that is a great test. Photo credit: Ricky Robinson.

distance is the perfect backdrop to this David Harman-piece of art.

Daniel was the star turn of our round at Kauri Cliffs. He came to the trip, having not hit a driver that much but he made a sweet connection all day and was handy with his 37 handicap.

His tee shot to the par three fifth was his best shot of the day. He just missed the four-foot putt and then Smithy stole the show with a birdie putt from 40 feet.

But the best moment of the round arrived on the signature par three seventh. Blocka hit a pure three wood to 30 feet and then made the downhill putt for birdie with some pace. It is a two that he will never forget. Smithy also made a fine par on the seventh as they easily won the hole on one of the best par threes in the country.

We managed to get one back on the ninth when I made a six-foot putt for par, and we made the turn two up and feeling good about our chances.

TAKE YOUR TIME

One of the best things about playing here is just taking your time. We all settled in for a chicken burger and chips at the halfway point and Kauri Cliffs was comfortably living up to expectations.

Playing at Kauri is special because the team go out of their way to make sure you have a great experience. The pros cleaned our clubs at the turn and had a genuine interest in our round.

By the time you reach the coastal stretch, you are in awe of this place.  That view down to Waiaua Bay from the 15th and 16th is one of the best sights from a golf course in Aotearoa, and perhaps the world.

When we won the par three 14th, we went dormy four and Blocka and Smithy staged a comeback. They won the 15th and 16th at ease before Daniel finished the match on the stroke one hole. He made a putt from eight feet for bogey which was good enough to secure a 2 and 1 victory.

We all put in $10 for a three-hole challenge on the closing stretch and Blocka

and Smithy finished all square, so it was decided on the putting green. Blocka claimed the spoils, but Smithy was content as he put together the round of the trip, an 85 at Kauri Cliffs.

There is no better place for a couple of celebratory beers. If you haven’t experienced Kauri Cliffs, put it on your bucket list. It’s a golfing experience that you will talk about forever.

SOAKING IN A HOTSPOT

After two games in two days, the old bodies were aching, and relief was on the horizon. It was a cool and crisp Northland evening when we arrived in the Ngawha Springs around 40 minutes drive from Kauri Cliffs.

It’s a fascinating sight seeing the pilgrimage of locals and tourists make their way here for a two-hour session.

Ngawha consists of 16 geothermal pools in a courtyard and the heat varies from tepid all the way up to 42 degrees, which will get your attention.

Each of the geothermal pools have their own unique characteristics and healing properties with differing temperatures, colours and minerals. It’s just what we needed.

It’s also a great social time. Because the pools are intimate, it’s a great chance to meet the locals. We met a Māori fella who visited the pools three times a week, as it was good for cleansing his mauri (life force or essence) and wairua (the spiriti or the soul). He was a top man and gave us great tips for the rest of our trip.

Stepping back into the cold, with a sky covered in a thousand stars, it was time to head home for some much-needed sleep.

A BEAUTIFUL SPOT

During our time in Northland, we stayed at the Copthorne Hotel Bay of Islands, a few minutes walk from the Waitangi Golf Club.

The hotel is ideal for a golfing weekend or a family trip to explore Taitokerau. There is a swimming pool out the front which would make this a great summertime vacation. The rooms were modern and spacious, and the Sea Spray wing had beautiful views over the harbour. It was a magical spot both at sunrise and sunset.

Blocka and I met up at 6.30am for a run over to Paihia and back. It was special starting in the dark and seeing the sun slowly rise throughout our run. That early morning pink hue over the golden sandy beaches will be a memory I will keep from this trip.

After the run we tucked into the legendary cooked breakfast at the Copthorne of poached eggs, bacon and hash browns while we caught up with how Foxy was faring in the US PGA Championship. We had our own major championship to play down the road in Kerikeri.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12>>

Another picturesque shot at Kauri Cliffs. This is the tee for the par four 10th and it’s a hole that can play very differently depending on the wind that is in play that day. Photo credit: Ricky Robinson.

The final test at Kauri Cliffs. The 18th is called Tane Mahuta and it’s a great par five up the hill. In the distance you can see Waiaua Bay, one of three beaches accessible by lodge guests. Photo credit: Ricky Robinson.

The glorious setting of the par four 10th at Kauri Cliffs is called Valley. It measures 313m from the white tees and it’s a good challenge to open the back nine. Photo credit: Ricky Robinson.

GOLF NEWS

GOLF IN THE HEART OF KERIKERI

It’s always a special experience playing a course you have never played before.

There is the unknown of where a hole goes, what hazards lie around the corner and the unique feeling of trying to make your first round there a memorable one.

I had heard nothing but good things about the Bay of Islands Golf Club. It lived up to expectations as one of the best club courses in the region.

For the final match, I teamed up with Blocka, looking for his first win of the tour, against Smithy and Daniel. There was everything to play for.

When you print off your scorecard, the 5840m par 73 layout from the whites seems gettable, but it has humbled many good players over the years, and we soon found out why.

The course is an adventure and has a plethora of doglegs and undulations to keep you guessing.

The advice from Brad in the pro shop perhaps summed that up best. On the third hole – the par five - don’t go left off the tee and then don’t go right from the fairway.

Special mention needs to be made about the condition of this course. The greens were superb, the couch fairways were in good nick and it would be a real pleasure to be a member here.

LIKE A GAME OF CHESS

Smithy was his usual casual self as he hit fairways and greens in regulation like it was no big deal, and Daniel was proving a worthy sidekick on the opening two holes.

Local knowledge is a premium here as the round plays out like a game of chess. You constantly need to play for position and think about your second shot.

The hardest hole on the course – the stroke one fourth is a case in point. It’s a short par four at only 282m but it’s one of the tightest doglegs going around.

I hit a pretty good rescue into the right-hand side of the fairway and followed it with a six iron that just hit the left side of the green and went into the hazard.

I managed to help us get one back on the fifth when I hit a seven iron to the front of the green and two-putted for par and Blocka was hitting many fairways in regulation. His par on the par five sixth was solid golf.

But Smithy and Daniel held a two up lead on the 10th. It was one of those days where the putts weren’t dropping and our rivals didn’t give us many openings. Before we knew it – when Smithy made a great birdie on the par five 12th – we were four down with six holes to play.

The par three 13th – known as the Drop Hole – puts the Bay of Islands Golf Club on the map. It is only 110m, but it drops significantly to a green that is surrounded by bunkers and water. It’s a great hole.

Daniel hit his best shot of the day when he hit a seven iron to five feet, but I managed to get up and down from the bunker to win the hole and keep us in it.

But the comeback was short-lived as we halved the next hole – Smithy and Daniel would go onto claim a 4 and 3 win and we were left to rue what might have been.

This part of the course is awesome –a series of short par fours with a range of doglegs and undulation changes.  You can make anything from a three to a seven on these holes easily.

We finish off the round with another three-hole challenge, which Smithy took out without any stress, and we completed the day with a round of Sawmill Hazy IPAs on the deck.

Brad showed us a video of a Kiwi being rescued from a drain on the golf course earlier that morning. It’s an extraordinary sight to see a Kiwi in clear daylight. “You don’t get that in Auckland,” he says proudly.

He is right. You don’t get places like this in Auckland. The Bay of Islands Golf Club is a real gem.

Perhaps the best thing about this place is the people. I was taking photos on my phone throughout the round and my keys were in the same pocket and fell out on the course.

Without them we would have been in a bit of strife, so it was a huge relief to see them passed into the pro shop by one of the members.

If you are heading to Northland, put this place on your golf trip schedule, you’ll love every minute and leave only wanting to play it again.

FLOATING ABOVE THE WORLD

We arrived at the Paihia Wharf in the middle of the afternoon to see a group way in the distance, at a ridiculous height in the air.  It was pretty nerve wracking to think that we were up next.

The Flying Kiwi Parasail in Paihia is an awesome experience.  It’s New Zealand’s highest parasailing at 1300ft (almost 400m) over the beautiful Bay of Islands.

The crew – Julia and Sean – were great people and after a short boat trip out into the heart of the harbour you are strapped into a harness, sat on the back of the boat and pulled up into the air.

There was no need to be scared. It’s just a wonderful, carefree experience. It’s so quiet up there.

It’s a lovely feeling floating around for 20 minutes. To the east you can see the historic township of Russell, the best of the Bay of Islands, including the Hole in the Rock and back toward inland the hallowed turf of the Waitangi Treaty grounds and the coastal holes of the Waitangi Golf Club.

On the descent you come swinging down and your feet are dunked into the ocean. It’s a soft landing back onto the boat and a must-do in the Paihia area. There are no age or physical limitations, so it is a great activity for all the family and for people of all abilities.

THE OLDEST ESTABLISHMENT IN NEW ZEALAND

Going for dinner at The Duke of Marlborough feels like a trip back in time. The evening began with a ferry trip from to Russell with the lads keep-

ing tabs on the Warriors playing the Dolphins.

The Duke is a grand old lady that has been restored. She commands centre stage on the Russell waterfront. The tagline is Refreshing Rascals and Reprobates since 1827 and it was the first pub in New Zealand to hold a liquor license.

The stage was set for a good night out. We arrive when a wedding full of 180 guests was in full swing and getting rowdy, and we were shown to our seats with an ocean view.

We began with a flagon of the local McLeod’s Pale Ale and realised that every step of this culinary journey was going to be a memorable one.

From the fried bread to the Calamari starter – which was cooked to perfection, to the medium rare Scotch fillet steak, every dish is something to savour. The restaurant was full and lively, and the waiting staff were excellent.

We finished the evening with a quiet bottle of Shiraz before we made the 9pm ferry. If you’re on holiday in this region, book in a table for a special treat, the quality and atmosphere are superb.

A dinner out of the top drawer was a fitting end to a Northland golf trip that the boys will talk about for many years to come.

Northland Inc and North Golf Association have launched four Golf Itineraries, designed to offer great golf, amazing food and drink, and epic experiences. Find them at northlandnz. com/golf-itineraries

A special thanks to Lisa Cunningham, the Destination Specialist at Northland Inc for coordinating our trip.

An aerial view of the Bay of Islands Golf Club in Kerikeri which is a true gem. It has a great layout full of doglegs and undulations.

The Duke of Marlborough in Russell was established in 1927. It was the first pub in New Zealand to hold a liquor license.

That floating feeling. The Flying Kiwi Parasail in Paihia is New Zealand’s highest parasailing at 1300 feet (almost 400m) over the beautiful Bay of Islands.

The iconic Drop Hole at the Bay of Islands Golf Club in Kerikeri. It is the 13th hole and measures only 110 metres from the white tees, but the green is surrounded by bunkers and water to the right.

Stories from the PGA Championship

By Neville Idour

DECHAMBEAU STRIKES THE RIGHT NOTES

Bryson DeChambeau continues to endear himself to fans with his outgoing actions towards fellow players and the fans young and old themselves.

After his attempt in the final round of the PGA Championship to reel in Scottie Scheffler fell short, probably the last place you would have expected him to be an hour or so after he finished tied second was the scorer’s hut.

Yet that is where he was, waiting for Scheffler to turn up with his scorecard. Apart from Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley he was the only player there to offer warm congratulations which he did. This in complete contrast to other players less inclined to go out of their way.

All the more extraordinary given Scheffler’s demands that LIV golfers should be heavily punished for leaving the PGA Tour and blaming them for the lack of progress on the PGA Tour and LIV Golf talks. Maybe Scheffler will learn something from DeChambeau’s

gracious actions.

There was another much more important engagement that DeChambeau headlined on the Tuesday before the tournament began. It was standing room only at a breakfast for over 300 people.

DeChambeau waived his standard speaking fee and asked that 50 First Tee (a youth development organisation) youngsters be allowed to attend.

Almost 100 had applied for the breakfast invites having done volunteer service, got letters of recommendation and written essays about which of the First Tees nine core values they used the most.

The 50 youngsters had pride of place with DeChambeau as he said when it came to question time it was only their questions he would answer.

His message to the kids was “get one per cent better every day and be passionate about what you do, whether it is golf, sports, business, art or music or whatever. Do your absolute best every day and learn every day.”

He was supposed to leave at 9.30am to fulfil his other plans for the day but stayed until 10am to sign autographs and pose for a photo with each one of

the First Tee youngsters.

DeChambeau, with more than five million social media followers, said: “I want to grow outside the game of golf. I want to bring others that have never seen the game into golf.”

YouTube has been a great platform for that.

SCHEFFLER BLAMES LIV PLAYERS

Scottie Scheffler was in the media spotlight after the PGA Championship when asked a couple of LIV Golf related questions. With the deal between the PIF (Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund) and the PGA Tour in limbo he was asked his thoughts on the situation. His replies were quite pointed and almost dismissive.

“I don’t know. That’s for the higher ups to decide. The guys that left, it’s their responsibility to bring the tours back together. Go to the other tour and ask those guys. Go see where they are playing this week and ask them.”

A pretty disinterested response as expected. It was a pity the questioners didn’t ask him to elaborate on how he thought the LIV players were going to

reunite the tours when the PGA Tour had banned them and they weren’t involved in discussions.

However they did ask the obvious one. Would he have had such a dominant run of results if the LIV players were still on the PGA Tour? Probably a pointless question even if it is relevant.

“Who knows. I only get to compete against them four times a year. That was their choice, not mine. What’s the point of thinking about what might have been.”

Enough said. Scheffler is obviously happy with the current situation.

PGA CHAMPIONSHIP NEEDS A RESET

There has been much criticism of the PGA Championship and rightly so. Some said it just felt like any other PGA Tour event, especially being played at Quail Hollow, a venue used every year for the tour. A major should be held on a course that is separate from the main circuit, preferably an iconic venue that will foster worldwide attention.

Another factor in the event’s decline was the decision by the PGA of

America to move from the event’s traditional time slot of August back to May. One of the things missing is seeing the occasional club professional making a run on the leaderboard.

Apparently May does not leave them enough time to hone their game as they are too busy with their club duties and preparing their course for the members to play. This was a unique feature generally missing from the other majors.

Take the event global is another call that would inject life back into what some believe is a dying major. The mind boggles at the thought of it being played throughout the world. Australia at Royal Melbourne, Valderrama in Spain, Crans-sur-Sierre in Switzerland, Japan, United Kingdom, Sweden.

Finally, as covered elsewhere, the quality of the television coverage must improve. The Masters coverage disappointed but the PGA Championship coverage plunged the depths with its amateurish presentation. Examples were incessant advertisment breaks, studio fillers, 10-man leaderboards, every other shot, showing players out of the running and not showing play-

ers in the mix. It was a huge turnoff for many and tempted hitting the off button.

The only other way to lessen the angst is to record and watch it a little later and fast forward the boring bits. There is no doubt they could learn a lot from LIV Golf and its coverage which shows much more golf played.

TO SPEAK OR NOT TO SPEAK

The me first approach is a trend that is worrying, as too many privileged and wealthy professional golfers are increasingly adopting that mantle.

It is becoming more evident as more players choose not to speak to the news media after their rounds. In a nutshell it is pathetic when you think about it and what is involved. It boils down to answering a few questions. The player is still in control of the narrative. The answers he gives are his choice.

Rory McIlroy, of course, headlined the issue by refusing to talk to media after each of his four rounds at the PGA Championship. This of course was not his first rodeo, remembering his hasty exit after losing the US Open to Bryson DeChambeau at last year, then

Burnham Golf Club

not speaking to media after his first round at The Masters.

It is frustrating as when he does speak, his open, candid and usually thoughtful comments are well worth hearing. But this shouldn’t give him the right to pick and choose, especially at major championships.

It feels like the rolling ball is gathering momentum. At Augusta, Shane Lowry said he didn’t think players should have to speak to the media after their rounds and then emphasised his opinion by not talking to media after losing to Sepp Straka at the Truist Championship.

Collin Morikawa joined the bandwagon after losing by a shot to Russell Henley at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. He said: “I don’t regret not talking to media. I don’t owe anyone anything.”

He deserved the criticism he copped for his well described brain dead, tone deaf comments. It showed complete disregard for the fans and revealed his self centered, ignorant mindset. One commentator said it was brattish.

The media is the link between fans and sportspeople which includes professional golfers. It is simply lose, lose

Burnham Golf Club is situated 6 km south of Rolleston, New Zealand’s fastest growing town. Turn right off SH 1 (Main South Road) at the intersection with Aylesbury Road and follow the signs to the Burnham Military Camp. Burnham Golf Club is across the road.

The course is an easy flat walk with most fairways tightly tree lined and require accuracy off the tee and pin point shot making into the greens. There is one water hazard on the course and no bunkers. An internal out of bounds operates on fairway 12 for any player unlucky enough to hit their ball into the NZ Army’s Ammunition Magazine (balls are non-retrievable unless you’d like to see the Military Police in action!).

Burnham is popular with green fee players because of the easy access on to the course on any day of the week or weekend. Group bookings are welcome and depending on numbers receive reduced green fees plus bar and catering facilities on request. Blue Tees: 5837 metres (Par 72) | Red Tees: 5109 metres (Par 70) | Yellow Tees: 5109 Metres (Par 73.)

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when the players do a McIlroy, Lowry or Morikawa. The fans lose out.

If the media stopped attending events because speaking to the players was unlikely, the fans will lose interest, so will sponsors. If that happened purses and sponsorship money would reduce and those same players would deservedly play for less money. The huge amounts of money available to these players is fostering a sense of self importance and superiority. Putting other people first is becoming a diminishing quality for some golfers.

But on a positive note there are exceptions to this argument. Who can forget the grace of Justin Rose after his heartbreaking loss to McIlroy at The Masters. Yes he spoke with class expressing his delight for McIlroy, knowing his duty as a prominent figure. Likewise Bryson DeChambeau could have done without voicing his frustrations about his final round at Quail Hollow but he took what time was needed to speak to reporters. No easy way out for them.

The message for the self entitled might be the old hoary “shape up or ship out.”

Book Review: Together We Roared by Steve Williams and Evin Priest

By Peter Thornton

Has there been an athlete in the history of sport who has lived in the spotlight more than Tiger Woods? The answer to that is probably not and that is why there is so much interest and intrigue in his story.

Together We Roared has its own point of difference. It’s a compelling and candid memoir from Steve Wil-

liams, regarded as one of the finest caddies in golf history.

It offers an insider’s view of Williams’ 12-year partnership with Woods — arguably the most iconic golfer of all time. It almost never happened.

Williams thought he was being prank called when Woods called to ask if he wanted to be his caddy. He hung up on Woods twice before he finally took the conversation for the defining role of his career.

Co-written with golf journalist Evin Priest, the book captures both the glory and grit behind one of the most successful duos in sport’s history.

Reading this collection of stories from one of the signature eras in world golf makes you realise how fortunate we were to have a New Zealander at the heart of the action.

This account takes you inside the ropes.  It’s an intimate portrayal of moments that only someone in Williams’ shoes could have witnessed: Tiger over-powering golf courses, his quiet determination and the fire that fuelled his legendary run between 1999 and 2008.

The detail will have golf fans engaged with every story. Williams himself was the great planner and note taker. He would meticulously prepare and plan for Woods’ most important tournaments during this period and it’s that

level of detail – along with Woods’ once in a generation talent – that saw them become an unstoppable force.

Williams walks readers through the “Tiger Slam,” the unforgettable chip-in on Augusta’s 16th in 2005, and the remarkable 2008 US Open triumph on a broken leg — events that are all etched into golf history and will be talked about for years to come.

At crucial points in this historic major run, Williams played his part making decisive and important calls with the championship on the line.

He would personalise an important week for the pair by adding a soundtrack from one of his favourite songs – like The Feelers ‘As Good As It Gets’ or ‘Reckless’ by Australian Crawl – with lyrics to fit whatever Woods was going through or the challenge ahead.

Beyond the trophies and iconic shots, Together We Roared delves into the human side of their relationship — one forged in relentless pursuit of perfection but also tested by fame, personal challenges and a painful falling out.

Particularly touching are recollections of Tiger caddying at Steve’s wedding on the humble holes of the South Head Golf Club in Auckland and delivering a heartfelt best man speech — moments that contrast with the 12-

year silence that followed their acrimonious split.

Williams has been all over the New Zealand media in the launch of this book reminiscing of his time in the greatest seat in the house but where Together We Roared is at its best is when it is shows emotional honesty.

Williams doesn’t shy away from reflecting on the highs and lows, the relentless pursuit of Jack Nicklaus’ major record of 18 titles and the personal cost of life at golf’s summit, like errant comments he made which made international headlines.

One of the biggest stories that circled Williams was whether he knew about Woods’ now infamous extramarital affairs and the caddy outlines the impact that saga had on him and his family.

He tells this story in an honest and reflective way which shows he has made peace with whatever transpired in their relationship.

Ultimately, Together We Roared is a moving tribute to a unique bond built on trust, intensity and a mutual respect. For golf fans, and anyone who watched the most extraordinary feats of Woods through his prime, it’s a must-read.

For everyone else, it’s an inspiring story of friendship, ambition, and redemption.

The McLeans Island Golf Club, located opposite the Orana Park Wildlife Reserve and next to the mountain bike and walking tracks, is a place of tranquillity, not too far from the city, but far enough away to say you are in the country.

Here you will always receive a friendly welcome and a golf experience second to none in Christchurch. For very competitive membership fees and green fees McLeans Island Golf Club is one of the best. Fully catered six days a week with easily walked fairways, there is a lot of enjoyment to be had both on and off the course. If you really want to play your golf without the crowds and having to book tee times weeks in advance, then you must come on.

The front cover of a book about Steve Williams on his time as caddy for Tiger Woods.

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Meet the pro — Mitchell McMurtry at Kauri Cliffs

Mitchell McMurtry is a long way from home but he is in his happy place in the winterless north.

The 26-year-old from Virginia in the United States is the head professional at the Kauri Cliffs Golf Club in Northland.  McMurtry loves meeting people from all walks of life. The feeling of welcoming golfers to one of the most spectacular courses in the world never gets old. His best round at Kauri Cliffs is 73 from the tiger tees so he is well qualified to offer advice to “weekend warriors’’ wanting to take on one of our best.

1. Mitch, what is it like to work at Kauri Cliffs?

Working at Kauri Cliffs is a unique privilege. I am fortunate enough to have one of the most beautiful and peaceful offices in the world. The property itself is stunning, but what really makes the experience special is the guest interaction.

We’re not just checking people in and out of the golf shop -- we’re creating lasting connections. Many of our guests return year after year and it’s rewarding to recognise familiar faces and renew acquaintances. I take pride in delivering a high standard of service while making each guest feel genuinely welcomed. It is an environment that challenges you to stay sharp, be personable and represent the brand at its best every day.

2. What makes this place special?

Firstly, the landscape. It’s untouched —rolling cliffs, hid-

den coves and nature that’s been beautifully preserved. It genuinely feels remote and magical, like you have stepped off the map.

Secondly the design. What really elevates Kauri Cliffs is the intentional design focused entirely on guest experience. From the moment guests arrive, we are there to greet them in the parking lot and begin creating the wow experience. The driving range is a short walk from the golf shop, tucked away in a peaceful corner with ocean views -- this is not just a warm-up spot. It is somewhere where you actually want to stay standing and soak it all in. The course layout gives guests the feeling of having the entire place to themselves, while still offering moments of genuine connection with the team throughout the round. It strikes the perfect balance between privacy and hospitality.

And thirdly you are playing in a private oasis. Kauri Cliffs feels like a private, member-only retreat, but what makes it unforgettable is that it is open and welcoming to all.

3. It’s a great experience from the moment you arrive in the car park, does your team pride itself on delivering that experience?

Absolutely. Since day one, Kauri Cliffs has been about delivering a world class, service-driven experience – and that’s something we take immense pride in. The Robertson family has built a team of passionate professionals who

not only love where they work but are fully invested in creating that guest-first culture. We are constantly focused on the details – how to raise the bar, how to personalise each guest’s visit and how to foster a workplace where people genuinely enjoy showing up each day.

We are a tight-knit golf family. This past season, we had just eight full-time staff, and truthfully, we probably spent more time together than with our own families. Holidays, early mornings, late nights, shared meals – you name it. And through it all, the conversations around delivering an exceptional, elevated experience never really stop.

4. What are your favourite holes and why?

Hole #4 - This is one of the true standout par fives on the course and I love the decisions it forces players to make. Off the tee, the ideal line is just inside the left-hand bunkers. Long hitters might reach the

flat at the top of the fairway, giving them a real shot at going for the green in two. The second shot is all about risk and reward – laying up may seem safe, but the fairway narrows dramatically, demanding precision. The approach is everything here. Stick it close, and you are walking away with a birdie. Miss your mark, and you could be scrambling for par – or worse.

Hole #16 - A dream off the tee, this downhill par four is a visual stunner. Everything is laid out in front of you, inviting you to take on as much of the left side as you dare. But be careful – greed can land you in thick native grass or one of the well-placed bunkers. The smart play is down the right side, leaving a clean wedge approach straight toward the ocean. The second shot hangs in the air forever. Hold your finish, soak in the view – it’s one of those moments that stays with you long after the round ends.

5. What advice do you offer to a middle handicapper playing here for the first time?

Kauri Cliffs features plenty of sloped fairways and uphill lies, so choosing the right set of tees can make all the difference between an enjoyable round and one that wears you down. Our aim is for every guest to have a great experience, no matter what their skill level. The back tees are built for the best players, and with Northland’s ever-changing weather, the course can quickly become one of toughest tests in the world.

We always recommend chatting with our on-site pros – they can offer tailored advice based on the day’s conditions and your playing style. Whether you’re after a relaxed, enjoyable round or looking to take on one of the toughest challenges in golf, we’ve got the right tees to match your game.

Golfer Pacific writer Peter Thornton has a chat with the head professional at Kauri Cliffs who provides an insight to a world class golf course in Northland.

A stunning view of the 16th hole at Kauri Cliffs in Northland. Photo credit: Nick Wall/AirSwing Media.

An magnificent aerial view of Kauri Cliffs. Photo credit: Nick Wall/AirSwing Media.

American Mitchell McMurtry, who is the head professional at Kauri Cliffs in Northland. Photo credit: Nick Wall/AirSwing Media.

News in brief

By Neville Idour

VETERAN

BILLY FOSTER

SPLITS WITH FITZPATRICK

Veteran caddie Billy Foster is 59 and describes his 43 year stint as a caddie like a 43-year stag do.

His recent split with Matt Fitzpatrick in March meant missing out on the PGA Championship was a sobering experience.

Fitzpatrick’s 2022 US Open win was a joyous occasion and career highlight. However Fitzpatrick has slumped to world number 84 and has not won for 19 months. These things often lead to the caddie being past their use by date.

Not withstanding the foregoing, Foster has an impressive portfolio having worked with, among others, Seve Ballesteros, Lee Westwood, Sergio Garcia and Darren Clarke. But he says he is not ready for pasture yet.

“I have not enjoyed getting up in the morning and thinking, what am I going to do today? I’ve done this since I was 16 and I like being on the road,’’ Fitzpatrick said.

“To get up with no purpose is no good for me. I’d like another three years and to finish on my terms. I want to be at Bethpage Black in September for the Ryder Cup in any capacity going, even if it’s making cups of tea or polishing the shoes. I’ve told captain Luke Donald I’m ready to help.”

As for the changing requirements for caddies he is not a fan of range finders which were again in evidence at Quail Hollow for the PGA Championship. He says range finders will not speed the glacial game up.

“I’ll zap it twice and get two different readings, so you still keep checking.”

Enough said Billy.

FOSTER’S FUNNIEST EXPERIENCES

Foster has seen many happenings involving players during his 43year “stag do” and shared two of the funniest recently. One of them was at

Bethpage during the 2009 US Open. It involved Sweden’s Johan Edfors, handsome with long hair and nice beard.

Foster related: “I was caddying for Lee Westwood and Edfors left a long putt 15 feet short. From the back of a big grandstand behind the green this guy stood up and shouted `He looks like Jesus but putts like Mary’. Me and Westie are on the floor. But guess what? Next day Edfors arrived having shaved off his beard. You just have to take it.”

The other one was:  “The worst tantrum, came from Mark Calcavecchia. He was in third place in the second round playing the 12th hole at The Masters. I am caddying for Sergio Garcia. Calcavecchia ended up in the water twice, then a bunker and missed a 20 foot putt. He has to mark it with a two footer for an eight. He is looking for a coin and all you can hear is tee pegs rattling around in his pocket. He is about to go from third in the Masters to the cut line.”

“He was getting more agitated by the second then lost it completely. He ripped his pocket and tees and coins fell, spread on the green. He’s now got an 18 inch tear in his trousers down to his knee. Bubba looks over at me and he is crying.”

Any more of those Billy? Very therapeutic.

VAN ROOYEN HATES THE RESTRICTED SIGNATURE EVENTS

South African Erik Van Rooyen, who finished runner-up to Scottie Scheffler at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, said he hates the restrictions of the PGA Tour’s so-called signature events. He also revealed he did not know his second placing had given him enough “Aon Swing 5” points to qualify for the next week’s Truist Championship, a signature event.

He said: “I didn’t know. We were about to go home and relax a bit. But it’s a good problem to have.”

When asked how he felt he didn’t mince words. “I hate it. I strongly believe that the strongest fields are the ones with the most players in them.

The guys on the PGA Tour are so good.”

The Aon Swing 5 is a competition that rewards players who have accumulated the most Fedez Cup points in full field tournaments with a place in the next signature event.

TGL ANNOUNCES FIRST EXPANSION

The biggest news of 2025 so far (year right) was surely the revelation that the Tiger/Rory league has created a new seventh team. It is called Motor City Golf Club and will represent Detroit. But, wait for it, fans won’t see this new phenomenon until the 2027 season.

The number of so called owners, investors, movers and shakers gushing about it is somewhat cringing.

“We are excited to be part of innovating the great game of golf.”

“This is a great moment for Detroit sport.”

“My grandfather was an avid golfer and this would make him really proud.”

“It’s an honour to build this team together.”

“We’re excited to represent our city in TGL and build a team Detroit fans will be proud to support.”

“TGL finds a terrific balance between honouring the tradition of golf while adding elements that will grow its appeal and fan base.”

Oh please, this is another team to play a simulator game.

RAHM RESPONDS TO CRITICS

Jon Rahm has admitted his game hasn’t been at his best and his swing had not been right. But his strong display at the PGA Championship showed he is getting more comfortable with his swing. He has been widely criticised for his move to LIV Golf being responsible for his dip in form, particularly at major championships.

Rahm scotched that theory saying: “Me going to LIV and playing worse in majors had nothing to do with where I was playing golf.

“My swing was simply not at the level it had to be for me to compete. When

you get to the biggest stages like this one and these courses, those flaws are going to be exposed and they were. So I think the problems began earlier than people think.”

DECHAMBEAU’S DRIVE FOR PERFECTION

They say rust never sleeps. Neither does Bryson DeChambeau when it comes to seeking improvement. He said at LIV Golf Miami: “When you drive the ball at 190 miles per hour, as Rory (McIlroy) and I do, it is quite difficult to control the golf ball as it side-spins and gets hit by the wind quite a bit because our balls are longer in the air.

“So I’m looking at ways to rectify that so my wedges fly straighter. I’ll work my butt off to make that happen. I’m keen and excited to keep on improving.”

He also revealed that prototype golf ball testing was in the works.

MCILROY TO HEADLINE AUSTRALIAN OPEN

In great news for Australian golf fans, Rory McIlroy will headline the 2025 and 2026 Australian Opens, with this year’s event at Royal Melbourne from December 4-7. In 2026 it will be at Kingston Heath.

This will be a welcome return since his last appearance in 2014 when he was defending champion after his 2013 win over Adam Scott at Royal Sydney. Said McIlroy: “I’ve always wanted to play the world class Melbourne sandbelt professionally. The success of the Australian Open is important for the global game. I can’t wait to be part of the atmosphere.

“I would love to see it become one of the world’s biggest tournaments and almost be the fifth major. The market there is huge. They love sport and have been starved of top level golf.”

The event has moved away from the recent combined men’s and women’s format, back to stand alone events. Tournament officials are hopeful of having Min Woo Lee, Cameron Smith, Adam Scott and at least the other Australian LIV Golf players back for

the 121-year-old championship.

RORY’S GIFT TO MARKER MAKER

One of the more extraordinary and appreciative gifts by a professional golfer was Rory McIlroy’s to Jon Millman of Golf Life Metals, his ball marker maker over the years.

The gift was in acknowledgement of his grand slam achievement. Millman posted an image on social network X. It features miniature replicas of each of the four major trophies in a high quality display case. Sent with it was a 2025 Masters flag with the message “Thanks for all the ball markers over the years” and was signed by McIlroy.

The marker he used during the tournament had a tribute to Manchester United, the soccer club he supports on one side. On the other side was a very personal message: “You already know how to play golf” by daughter Poppy with her name in the centre. Along with his post, Millman expressed his appreciation with the words “I have won some trophies, but this takes the cake. My golf life is blessed, thank you very much.”

HIGH ALTITUDE SCARE FOR GREG NORMAN

Australian Golf Digest reported that Greg Norman experienced a high altitude scare on a flight from Los Angeles to Florida when the windscreen of his private jet shattered mid flight.

On his way home to Palm Beach they had been climbing for 15 to 20 minutes when there was a loud bang which shook the cabin.

The windscreen had shattered and the pilots had to perform an immediate descent and emergency landing at LA airport where  emergency crews were waiting.

Norman was not fazed by this as he said: “This isn’t my first rodeo. The last one was his plane climbing to 30,000 feet … and bang … we dived to about 10,000 feet.”

Other interesting experiences over the years include lightning strikes, cabin fires, breaking the ceiling barrier to see the curvature of the Earth, losing hydraulics after taking off from an aircraft carrier and having to make an emergency

landing in his chopper, right in the middle of an apple farm west of Sydney. Never a dull moment for Greg.

LORENZO-VERA CALLS TIME ON HIS CAREER

Mike Lorenzo-Vera, a popular Frenchman on the DP World Tour, is retiring after 20 years as a professional golfer.

The 40-year-old was one of the circuit’s most loved players, with his infectious personality  and took a break last year because of crippling panic attacks and anxiety disorder and was completely consumed by his mental struggles.

“I started to scream and feel like I was drowning.”

Despite making what appeared to be an encouraging return in January at the Dubai Desert Classic he said he had had enough.

“I can’t do this anymore. I want to focus on my well being and my family. It was fun, it was hard, it was fantastic.”

Many of his fellow players, especially his French colleagues, expressed sadness but wished him well.

“He has taken care of us French players”, “I’m pretty sad, but happy for him”, “I’m going to miss him for sure”, “Mike has had enough. We can all understand it.”

LUCAS GLOVER SOUNDS OFF AGAIN

All kudos to Lucas Glover as he sounded off again, this time in support of Erik Van Rooyen who voiced his hate for the PGA Tour’s signature events.

Glover, 45, said: “I was not a fan when they hatched the idea. I didn’t like them then and have been in most of them and I still don’t like them. I don’t like cutting 200 cards. It’s getting too exclusive and we’re not giving enough opportunity.

“I think the majority of players would agree with that, but unfortunately it doesn’t sound like the majority matters. So we are just dealing with it. It’s selfish and a money grab. I’ve yet to figure out what’s so bad that we had to do all the things we’ve done, like … hey let’s raise some purses to make sure we keep some players (translation: stop them going to LIV) …. and at the same time eliminate a lot of playing opportunities for some really good players.”

LOWER WAITAKI GOLF CLUB CENTENARIAN

Margaret Kyle recently celebrated her 100th birthday with friends from the Lower Waitaki Golf Club over lunch at the Oamaru club.

She said turning 100 was quite similar to getting a hole in one. Everyone aspires to get one but you have to hit it straight then it is in the lap of the gods.

Raised in Millerton on the West Coast, she married husband Des in Westport in 1947, who died 18 years  ago. They both joined the Lower Waitaki Golf Club in 1976, when it was formed. They loved the game and Margaret, after retiring from teaching, played into her 90s. As she said: “I just loved it and tried my best every time.”

What an inspiring example.

RICKY KANG AIMING HIGH

Wakatipu Golf Club junior Ricky Kang has been selected for the New Zealand under 19 golf team to compete at the Junior World Cup in Japan this month. South Korean born Kang has banked some excellent results in recent months.

He won the Southland Strokeplay, was second in the Canterbury Strokeplay and played for Otago for the first time. He also played for the New Zealand juniors against the Australian juniors and he won the Queenstown Open in November. He also missed out on qualifying for the 2025 New Zealand Open by one shot.

His goals are aspirational.

“I want to win the US Junior Amateur before I turn 19, play on the PGA Tour and represent New Zealand and medal at the Olympics.”

His coach for the last five years Ben Gallie (Millbrook) is all in favour of his goal setting because they are good for motivation, especially at those lonely times practicing.

“He’s getting better continually and everything about his game is solid along with his good work ethic,’’ Gallie said.

His sister, 20-year-old Sumin, is on a four-year scholarship at Northern Arizona University in the United States. However he is not planning to follow his sister,

instead he is looking to join the Korean PGA Tour when he turns professional.

LEXI’S 19TH CONSECUTIVE US OPEN

It is quite remarkable to take in the fact that at just 30 years of age, fan favourite Lexi Thompson was playing her 19th consecutive US Open since her debut as a 12-year-old in 2007.

Her age record was only passed when Lucy Li played in 2014 as an 11-year-old. Thompson missed the cut the first two years but finished 34th in 2009.

She turned professional in 2010 and was 10th at Oakmont. Now semi retired she is still active and her appearances this year, although only at specific tournaments, are still creating much interest.

DRIVER TESTING UNDER SPOTLIGHT

At Quail Hollow, Rory McIlroy’s favourite TaylorMade QI10 driver was deemed to be non-conforming when tested on the Tuesday of tournament week. Having to use another driver was suggested as a reason for his missing the cut.

Strangely, Scottie Scheffler admitted that his driver also failed the tests after winning the Wanamaker Trophy on the Sunday. Such test results are usually kept confidential but McIlroy’s situation was leaked and it blew the issue wide open.

Apparently it is not unusual for drivers to fail testing because the thin faces suffer wear and tear from the massive swing speeds. This in turn can result in extra springiness thus making the club non-conforming.

Xander Schauffele has called for compulsory driver checks for the whole field, not just random as with only a third of the field.  Lucas Glover had similar feelings but added some juice to the furore saying some players cheat the system. He claimed: “Most guys don’t give them their real driver anyway. They give them their backup to test just in case. Why doesn’t everybody get tested at every major and it is the driver they will use. Let’s make sure we are all on an equal playing field and playing under the same rules.”

Sounds reasonable.

David Mullan is a man of the people and is always keen to put his hand up to help. He’s the ideal person to be the club development officer for the North Golf Association. Golfer Pacific writer Peter Thornton sat down with him to chat about his love for the game, his brilliant work on social media and how he aims to make a difference for golf clubs across the Northland region.

“I love golf because it brings people together”

Dave, as a club development officer, what does your role involve?

My role focuses on supporting our member clubs to grow, strengthen their operations and better engage with their communities. That includes working closely with club committees, managers and volunteers to improve governance, develop strategic plans, grow membership and enhance their junior and community engagement.

I also play a key role in helping clubs access funding, run events and implement regional initiatives that align with North Golf’s priorities. Essentially, I act as a connector and facilitator — making sure clubs have the resources, support and guidance they need to thrive now and into the future.”

Northland has a wide variety of golf courses, what do you love about your role?

Every day is different. I love working with passionate people that want to support the growth of the game.

For me personally, golf supports my overall wellbeing physically, mentally, spiritually and socially. Few sports encompass the full circle of health whilst immersed in nature’s beauty.

What are some of the challenges in terms of supporting clubs’ different needs?

Northland has a large disparity in the type of golf club on offer. From Te Arai Links and Kauri Cliffs to the rural ninehole courses boasting a membership no higher than 50 people. The challenge lies within adapting to the needs of these courses and everything in between. For example, we run bi-monthly workshops to support clubs to improve their capability and we must adapt these to cater to all the different challenges the array of golf clubs face, all while focusing on a similar outcome.

What advice do you offer to Northland golf clubs?

Look through the windscreen more than in the rearview mirror. Clubs can typically get caught up in the past and aren’t focusing energy to generate a tangible plan for the future of the game. The way golf is being played is changing and clubs should seek the “voice of the participant’’ so they can adapt and succeed with the future generation of golf.

What makes Northland a good spot for a golf trip? Any favourite holes that people must play?

The diversity of what is on offer with 24 unique golf clubs in Northland ranging from Wellsford to Houhora from links to parklands to rural hidden gems there is so much on offer. Golf courses have ample availability across the region and at most clubs you can play all year round.

That’s a tough question as there is so many! But here are a my top 10 “iconic” holes I would recommend:

* #16 at Kauri Cliffs

* #17 at Te Arai South

* #11 at Waitangi

* #13 at Waipu

* #11 at Northern Wairoa

* #5 at 90 Mile Beach Links

* #11 at The Pines

* #13 at Kerikeri

* #15 at Carrington

* #2 at Mangawhai

If you want to check out a bit more about golf in Northland, there’s some cool stuff here: https://www.northlandnz.com/visit/experiences/golf-and-other-sport/

You also run the boldmangolf page on Instagram, what do you enjoy about making that content?

I have always thrived off creativity and found this was a great platform to channel my energy and addiction for the game of golf. I love showing people that you can play golf in a way that brings joy to you in whatever way you have the most fun. Check it out and give me a follow if you enjoy what you see!.

You play regularly with former All Black Carlos Spencer and his son, and others, what have been some of the highlights?

I’m very privileged in my role where

the network and relationships are a key aspect which connects me with people from all walks of life. I have met and played with many professional athletes including Shaun Johnson, Carlos Spencer and his son, Lou Vincent and many more. I just enjoy playing golf with good people and these people are just that. The best part of playing with high performing athletes is that they are “subtly” competitive, yet they love a good bit of banter and a laugh. I have immense gratitude for where this job and my Instagram channel have and continue to take me. What do you love about the game of golf?

I can play it with my son, my friends, my wife, my grandparents, anyone who wants to play and we can all be on an equal playing field. I am also playing against myself every time I play, whether it is my last round or playing against my own mind, which is one of golf’s best challenges. I love that golf brings people together and that there is a such an obsessive community that love the game as much as I do!

David Mullan of the North Golf Association, which is an amalgamation of North Harbour and Northland. Mullan recommends that clubs “Look through the windscreen more than in the rearview mirror”.

With the lads -- Shaun Johnson, Tallan Egan, Brenden Soloman, Nathan Stockman, Robbie Johnson and David Mullan.

Avondale Golf Club: Where it all began

By Neville Idour

Where what all began? Forgive me a little indulgence, but this story from this golf crustacean is a little bit personal.

Avondale Golf Club in east Christchurch was the first member club for my wife and I. So I decided the time was right to revisit the reborn facility and tell it’s story and a tiny bit of mine.

Memories, memories. The time comes sadly, when that is all we may have left. For me most of my memories of my time at Avondale were great, just a couple were not and they both involved the unpleasant club captain at the time. I’m going back decades here but the events and lessons I learned are worth relating.

It was my first Saturday club day and this greenhorn went into the clubhouse for apres golf. I get inside in the buzzing full lounge and I’m halfway in when this loud voice bellows out above the chatter “Take that b….. cap off.”

The whole lounge went quiet with me the star turn. I was unaware you never wore your cap in the clubhouse. Lesson learned. Unfortunately a couple of Saturdays later I was put in a four that included the same guy. I was in some trepidation and it was not displaced.

I have always taken one practice swing before my shot. Just one and I don’t dilly dally or freeze over the ball or take an age to line up. Despite that, early in the round he proceeds to inform me “You don’t need a practice swing.”

You can imagine how much I enjoyed my round. So after that, thoughts of cancelling my membership briefly floated by but thankfully I settled on avoiding this guy, period.

Now that I have got the unpleasant out of the way we can look at the positives and where the club is today. The news is all good. Our years at the club were thoroughly enjoyable and there was a very welcoming and friendly membership. Club events were always enjoyable and the clubhouse was more than adequate in size and the ladies ensured the café was a popular place with great food.

The course was always a pleasure to play, if a little tight on some fairways. I scored one of my two holes in one on the excellent 134 metre 12th, a par three. The memory is still alive. My best 18 hole score was also recorded at Avondale. Incredibly my wife Philippa scored four holes in one at Avondale on four of the par threes, the 15th hole eluded her!

So it is easy to see why we have a fond spot for Avondale, which I have played on occasion over the years with great friend of 60 years, entertainer Neville Barrie.

I have digressed enough so it is time to talk about

the club and course today. When I visited for this story I encountered Paul Franklin and was staggered when he remembered my wife and I as he wouldn’t have seen us for 30 years.

So we had a chat. Paul has been a member since 1981. He talked about the 90-year-old clubhouse before the earthquake destroyed it.

“Before the earthquake our clubhouse was literally falling down,’’ Franklin said.

“It was in very poor condition and the earthquake put an end to it. We would never have had the money to rebuild it, but the insurance money actually covered the rebuild costs. So we came out  smiling with a new clubhouse.”

Franklin said the club had an excellent general manager, Richard Sinclair who has been with the club since the earthquakes. Sinclair has various awards for his management skills. He looks after the golf shop which has an excellent variety and plentiful stock, and is a good earner for the club.

The new clubhouse is outstanding. Spacious and well appointed it also includes at one end a big bonus for members. It was the first club in New Zealand to install two state of the art simulators that members can use as their warm up driving range as the club does not have a driving range. They are great for members but fair use is requested. You can also enjoy some tuition here with professional Andy Sams. The clubhouse is truly a 19th hole and more. It offers 270 degree views of the course. The simulator areas are ideal to house bands for functions. The bar and café facilities are top notch and can cater for any event. There are excellent outdoor areas as well.

Membership numbers are very healthy —  560 men, 104 women. The men’s membership is capped at that number although there is room for limited numbers of mid-week or nine hole players, but they can still accommodate more women.

Green fees are an absolute steal. Affiliated for 18 holes is $30. Nine holes $20. Unaffiliated $35 and $25. Sunday/Monday special $25 and $15. Carts $25 and $35. Sunday/Monday pairs deal — two players with cart $75.

Membership fees are also very amenable. Full membership is $995. Midweek $755. Nine-hole full $575. Nine-hole Midweek $475. Junior from $115. The course has evolved over 106 years from the sandhills in the east of Christchurch. The original 80 acres purchased by George Scales consisted of sandhills, swamp and dense scrub. Few could have envisaged the transformation of this wild area in to an appealing matured very playable but challenging 18 hole layout. Founder George Scales’ desire was to create an inclusive golfing experience, and that is exactly what the Dale, as the course is effectively

known, has become. It is also known as the most social club in Christchurch.

It was originally a links course in its purest form. In 1919, 12 holes were formed using only the natural contours of the land as it lay. Natural mounding and sand dunes were included unaltered. Vegetation was left in place to encourage accuracy. In the following decade it was developed into 18 holes. Thousands of trees were established and many of them today define the course and demand accurate tee shots. Meet the challenge and good scoring is in the offing. Finance was a problem from the beginning but the committees soldiered on overcoming any obstacles. Like for many clubs the post war years were difficult with membership being depleted and maintenance and administration costs spiralling upwards.

However by 1950 the light had got brighter with membership increasing and improvements to the course including the installation of a watering scheme in 1962.

So to the present day. The greens staff Garry Worsley and Merv Kitto have been looking after the course for 15 years and the results are obvious with fairways and greens offering fine playing conditions all year round. Looking ahead to the next decade there will be improvements to tee blocks, bunkering and naturalisation of some areas. The aim? A playable course for all in ever improving condition.

The course is a par 70 with 35 each nine. There are three par fives, 10 par fours and five unique par threes. By unique we mean different challenges in looks and very much design. From the white tees they measure in metres 144, 135, 134, 175 and 172 respectively. No pushovers. They all have bunkers lurking to snaffle the wayward or short ball.

Plus, on seven and 18, there is runoff. No 18 is ranked one of the most challenging in Canterbury. My hole in one hole the 12th is fun with the chance of the green shape aiding the ball towards the hole if well directed. But get the length right.

Undulations are a feature on several holes and add to the interest, challenge and enjoyment — and at 5404 metres from the white tees and 5071 from the forward tees distance is not going to overwhelm. Apart from the par threes, standout holes are the par four second, the par five fifth and the par four 8th, 9th, 14th, 15th and 17th holes. It all adds up to a great day out and you won’t come away exhausted from a swag of lost balls, more than head high deep bunkers or having to negotiate matagouri bushes. Stay out of the trees and a good score is very much for the taking. If not then the opportunity to play some miracle recovery shots may present themselves. Whatever the case if you can’t enjoy a round at the Dale then maybe you should try tiddlywinks.

Inside the clubhouse at Avondale.

The clubhouse at the Avondale Golf Club in Christchurch which replaced the one that had been damaged beyond repair by the devastating 2011 earthquakes.

The opening hole at Avondale.

Silly Fedex Cup finale canned

By Neville Idour

The PGA Tour has finally seen the light and canned the ridiculous, no, silly FedEx Cup Tour Championship finale format that many players loathed.

Brought in for 2019, starting positions were staggered (handicapped) from 10 under par down to even par according to the finishing position for the season. It succeeded in ensuring a generally lack lustre end to the season.

Roll on May 2025 and the latest fatuous,

cringe inducing announcements from PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan.

“Our Fan Forward initiative (translation please?) has helped us evaluate each part of the PGA Tour season and today’s announcement is an important first step in the evolution of our post season.

“The player advisory council led a thorough process to respond to what our fans are asking for. The most competitive golf in the world, (oh really), played for the highest stakes, in the most straightforward and engaging format. It will con-

tinue to evolve and respond to feedback from fans and players.”

Just announce the changes please, Jay. World No 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler said: “We want the Tour Championship to be the hardest tournament to qualify for and the FedEx Cup trophy the most difficult to win. The changes will make it easier for fans to follow and bring out the best competition.

Now to the nitty gritty. The changes in a nutshell will see the elimination of starting strokes. It will be a 72-hole strokeplay

event with all players starting on even par. The best four-round score wins.

The course setup will be adjusted to limit runaway under par scores and encourage more risk/reward moments throughout the four days.

The field size will remain at 30 players for 2025. The player advisory council will study the qualification system for future years and if changes are needed they will be made.

These changes will be welcomed by players and fans alike.

New club captain appointed at St Andrews

The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland is to get a new captain.

He will be judge Dennis Watson who will serve as captain for the 2025-26 season, having been nominated by the past captains of the club. He will begin his year in office after the traditional driving-in ceremony on the first tee of the Old Course on Friday, 19 September.

Born in Crosby, Watson attended Uppingham School and studied law at Leeds Polytech-

nic, now Leeds Beckett University, before being called to the Bar (Inner Temple) in 1985 and practising in criminal law on the Northern Circuit. He was appointed Recorder, a part time Crown Court judge, in 2002 and a QC in 2009 (now KC).

Watson was appointed Circuit Judge in 2012, based at Liverpool Crown Court, and is authorised to sit in the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). Elected Master of the Bench at Inner Temple in 2022, he also serves as

a Tutor Judge at Judicial College.

After becoming a member of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club in 2003, Watson served on several of the committees overseeing the work of The R&A including the golf development committee and the equipment standards committee, which he chaired from 2015-2019, and as a referee on The R&A’s rules panel.

A keen golfer since childhood, Watson became a member of Royal Birkdale Golf Club as a boy in 1975. He served as captain of

the club in 2008 and as trustee from 2009 to 2023. He is also a member of Royal St George’s Golf Club, Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, the Hittite, Bar, Old Uppinghamian and Prawn golfing societies and the Senior Golfers’ Society. His current handicap index is 4.4. Watson, 61, lives in Birkdale with his wife Nicki, who is a retired solicitor. The couple have two adult children, Samuel and Hannah, who are both barristers. The family are all golfers.

Dennis Watson who is to become the new club captain at the Royal and Ancient Golf Club at St Andrews in Scotland. Photo credit: The R&A.

LONG DRIVE

XDL Regional Masters –The next chapter in long drive begins

Xtreme Drivers League (XDL) has officially launched its Regional Business Platform with the appointment of its first Regional Master in New Zealand’s North Island — marking the beginning of a game-changing era for the sport of Long Drive.

Founder and award-winning innovator Olna Ford leads the charge, unveiling the League’s bold strategy to ignite grassroots growth and create a nationwide sporting movement through XDL’s 4 Pillars of expansion. These pillars will shape how the sport connects

with communities, inspires young athletes, powers regional events, and delivers new career pathways in sport and entertainment.

“The challenge to grow Long Drive in New Zealand and Australia has always been the lack of a home — no local venues, no dedicated spaces,” says Ford. “We’re changing that. XDL is bringing Long Drive into the heart of the community.”

Ford’s vision isn’t just talk — it’s backed by international acclaim, with three major business awards in 2025 alone:

XDL Careers - Join the

Elevate your career with the world’s most progressive league.

The Xtreme Drivers League (XDL) — a 10 x International Award-Winning Sports League — is recruiting dynamic talent to power the next phase of our global expansion.

* Positions Available Nationwide

* Operations Coordinators

* Media & Content Creators

* Grid & Event Crew

* Regional Managers

* Sponsorship Managers

Why XDL?

* Be part of a global sports revolution

* Sports Business Management Professional of the Year

* Sports Initiative of the Year – Xtreme Drivers League (Innovation & Excellence Awards)

* Sporting League of the Year – International Elite (Recognising Global Excellence)

With regional business developments now underway, XDL is set to create local jobs, empower regional champions, and activate the 4 Pillars across New Zealand — with Australian appointments soon to follow.

The Regional Masters model will deliver growth and participation to every region of New Zealand. XDL local franchise opportunities are now open. XDL roles are vast and include coaching, event management, operations, media management and more— a full-circle business approach to growing the sport from grassroots.

What’s Next?

Stay tuned as XDL reveals its brandnew business sectors, regional job opportunities, and upcoming an-

nouncements of appointed Masters in Australia. This is more than just sport — it’s an entrepreneurial movement. For media inquiries, investment opportunities, or to become part of the Regional Masters Network, contact:

* manager@newzealandlongblacks.com

* www.xdlworldwide.com

#XDLRegionalMasters #LongDriveRevolution #XtremeDriversLeague #SportingLeagueOfTheYear

xtreme movement

* Work alongside elite athletes and innovators

* Access travel opportunities across regions and countries

* Grow with a 10 x International Award Winning Sports League

Submit Your CV Today

Email: manager@newzealandlongblacks.com

Opportunities available in every region.

This is your moment to be part of something bold, new, and unstoppable.

GROW XDL BEYOND THE TEE

#XDLcareers #GlobalSport

#WorkWithXDL #XtremeMovement

Onekakā Links Golf Club

Amazing golfing experience at Onekakā in Golden Bay

With stunning vistas and memorable golf and hospitality, it’s a day you won’t forget.

The Links Course is not long, but rarely conquered. It comprises one par 5, eight par 4 and nine par 3 holes, including two double greens and a triple green via major elevation changes, with ocean, ponds, cliffs, penal bunkering or roughs encircling the greens. The Mountain Course is a significantly more difficult challenge and not for the faint hearted. Visit www.onekakalinks.com for a course guide also incorporating drone footage of the course and testimonials of visiting players. We also have a Face-

book page which is regularly updated. The green fee of $75 per head for 18 holes for a minimum of four players covers:

* Exclusive use – no other players on the course that day

* Golf cart and electric trundlers, laser distance finder

* Provision of two free golf balls per player

* A course guide – the course designer and club champion

* Hosted free drinks and snacks after the round

Although a private course, it’s open to visitors 364 days a year. However, to enable hosting arrangements bookings must be made at least two weeks in advance to chris@widespread.co.nz

“Golden Bay is full of amazing things to see and I just discovered another. If you play golf, Onekakā Links is a must visit. I have played golf all around the world and Onekakā gave me more fun and challenging shots than most courses that have hosted major championships. Your host Chris Castle with great imagination has created a wonderful course on a spectacular property. Thank you Chris, for a day to remember.”

- Kindest Regards, Bill Mackenzie (PGA Professional, St. Andrews East Golf Club, Canada)

“Onekakā Links is one of the most special New Zealand golf experiences one could have - it really is a must play for anyone who loves dramatic golf and out

of the box thinking. You have three or four green-sites that would rival the very best in New Zealand. I will be sending more people your way for sure.

You really chose all the best green sites to maximize your property. Your green in the far coastal corner of the property does this so well. The triple green with the bunker and lower green level and water hazard. It is the interest you created that is so much fun. Onekakā can’t fit inside a box and it should not be contained by the world’s idea of a routing and par. It is just an awesome place to play golf.

You and Richard Barham have done such an amazing job with your property - really impressive stuff. If you ever end up doing that new green we discussed

drop a me line and I may try to volunteer some shovel time for you if the timing works!

Thank you again and it was so kind of you to host me there. “

- CJ Kreuscher, Director of Agronomy for Te Arai Links and the original Superintendent of Tara iti, who recently played both courses.

“Great day out at the Onekakā Links in Golden Bay. Stunning scenery. Some exciting holes and wonderful hospitality. It’s a very unique offering but lots of fun and risk and reward. Wonderful hospitality from President Chris Castle and Club Captain Linda Sanders. Highly recommended. “

- Barry Johnston, Wanaka

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGIONS

Northland Secondary School Sports Pupeke Women’s Section

WPennant Winners

hangārei Boys’ High School for were the teams champions for another year and qualify for nationals, lead strongly by Keelan O’Neill who posted a 69 off the stick to win the gross!

upuke team for recently were the Women’s Section 1 Pennants winners.

Photo from left to right: Susan

Binks, Liz Banton, Jenny McDonald, Janice Grant, Judith Simpson, Lara O’malley, Debbie Erceg, Sally Beets

NORTHLAND NORTH HARBOUR

Akarana Golf Club –2025 A Pennant Champions!

After 29 long years, Akarana has reclaimed the A Pennant title — an incredible achievement that reflects the hard work of the entire team. What a way to finish the season!

A big thank you to Whitford Park Golf

Club for hosting a fantastic final round. We also acknowledge all the teams who competed, the clubs who hosted matches throughout the season, the managers who coordinated teams and scores, and of course the players who gave it everything.

St Johns Collegiate

Waikato’s St Johns Collegiate Silver golf team, for winning the 2025 Inter-Collegiate Teams Day held at Matamata Golf Club recently.

Pictured below left to to right: Quinn Snowdon, Xavier Eagles, Richard Eagles, Riley Eagles and Team Coach Jordan Rangihika.

BOP Women’s Association Pennant Final 2025

Played at Whakatane Golf Club for the BOP Women’s Association Pennant Final, the course was in great order

Hawkes Bay Men’s Pennants

The Men’s Pennants Finals took place on Sunday at Napier Golf Club.

With beautiful blue skies and the Napier course in fantastic condition it was

a perfect day to see who would be Pennants Champions for 2025. There were some very tight matches all accross the divsions with alot of matches coming down to the very last holes.

The Division Champions for 2025 were:

Championship #1: Napier

Championship #2: Napier

Championship #3: Napier

Handicap #1: Wairoa

Handicap #2: Napier

Handicap #3: Napier

Handicap #4: Dannevirke

Tairua golf club were the 9 Hole section for 2025 and Otumoetai winning the 18 Hole section in a playoff over Paeroa Golf Club.

HAWKE’S BAY

WDaikanae Golf Club who prevailed over Miramar Golf Club in the Combo Pennants final,

held in challenging conditions played recently at Boulcotts Farm Heritage Golf

ivan Denton finished 3rd in the U18 NextGen event recently at Royal Wellington He had rounds of 78, 81, 73.

Brodie Ferguson finishing 4th at the NextGen event at Royal Auckland with rounds of 75, 66, 70.

Club.

Tasman’s Barney claims South Island title in an epic playoff victory!

The South Island Age Group Championships saw the very best junior players across the South Island and New Zealand assemble recently in Christchurch at Coringa Golf Club.

Players were faced with one of the longest courses in recent memory, with cold and wet conditions making play even more testing with damp conditions and wind present throughout each of the three rounds.

Tasman had six players in the field with Elijah Barney, Kobe Hart, Jack Bell, Harry MacNeil, Maxwell Short, and Spencer Greg competing

After success in regional Futures Opens and selection in the Tasman Men’s representative side in 2024, Nelson Golf Club’s Elijah Barney continued to show his promising potential and was the pick of the Tasman crop to start things out with an impressive six-birdie round to shoot four-under-par and open proceedings with a 69 and a two-shot lead over Canterbury’s James Mordaunt. Kobe and Spencer both opened with three-over-par 76s to remain in the mix with 36 holes to go.

Heading into day two, Barney continued his impressive play sitting five-under for the tournament through 32 holes before a late stumble cost him three shots coming in, eventually sign-

ing for a two-over-par 75 to hold the lead by one shot over Southland’s Jake Slater. Marlborough’s Harry MacNeil fired an impressive round of even par whilst Kobe Hart delivered another round of 76 to remain part of the wider story going into the final round.

Final rounds are where champions are made and where the pressure gets notched up dramatically. Elijah undoubtedly would have been feeling this in his quest for victory although showed limited signs after starting out with five straight pars, however a hiccup at the sixth sent Barney into a share of the lead as Manawatu Golf Club’s William Dunsmore began to make some noise from the penultimate group, making four birdies in his first twelve holes to sit as the co-leader.

The final holes at Coringa Golf Club are a tough test with dog-

legs, out-of-bounds and long holes looming. Dunsmore navigated these well and now sat in the clubhouse at even-par for the tournament after a four-under 69. Barney needed to play solidly to have a chance and did just that, making it to the last with a chance to claim the title with a twenty-foot birdie putt. Unfortunately this wasn’t to be as an excellent effort grazed the lip meaning extra holes were needed to determine the U16 champion.

In the playoff, Dunsmore sent his drive into trouble meanwhile, Elijah sent his full throttle down the fairway before firing his approach in close to the hole with a packed audience surrounding the eighteenth in anticipation of some magic. With pressure still on his shoulders, Elijah took no chances in letting the playoff go any longer, burying the birdie putt to claim the South Island Under 16 title.

Hororata – Central Shield Interclub Champions The Women’s Weekend Interclub Final

The Final round of Canterbury Central Shield was played at Lincoln Golf Club recently, in damp, wintery conditions and the course in good order considering the weather conditions. The two teams in contention for the title, Hororata and Weedons Red were both unbeaten through round-robin play with Hororata holding a slender one point advantage going into the final round. They managed to hold that advantage after defeating the home side Lincoln 4-2 in a very close match, while Weedons Red defeated Greendale 5.5-.5 and in the other match Weedons Black defeated Ellesmere 4-2.

The winning Hororata team from left are Kohl Thompson-Small, Mike White, Max Edwards and Mark Weatherley.

Weedons Red’s Brad Nightingale won the Grant Lethaby Trophy for the best individual performance throughout the competition with a perfect 5 wins from 5 games.

The Women’s Weekend Interclub Final between Russley and McLeans Island was played at Weedons Country Club recently in challenging, cold, wet weather, with the course holding up surprisingly well considering the conditions. At the end of a hard fought 18 holes the teams couldn’t be separated finishing 2 all, so it came down to a sudden death play-off between Russley’s No. 1 Emma Lewis and McLeans Island’s No. 2 Sue Collins.

It was Emma who managed to get her team across the line at the second playoff hole to secure the win. The Russley team are pictured, from left Sandra Gover, Emma Lewis, Helen Lim, Jessica Lee and Anne Marie Jordan (Absent Di Stayt, Captain).

In the head-to-head matches, Emma Lewis bt Judy Smith 7/6; Jessica Lee lost to Sue Collins 4/3; Helen Lim bt Haley Evans 2/1 and Sandra Gover lost to Marise Wason 2 down.

The Women’s 4’s and 6’s Interclub Finals

The Women’s 4’s and 6’s Interclub Finals were held at Avondale Golf Club was played recently in fine, cool conditions, with the course in great order.

The 4’s Final between Lincoln and Coringa 1 was much closer than the final 4-0 result to Lincoln indicated, with two of the four matches going the full distance before the 2024 Champions Lincoln secured the win and made it back-to-back

wins in the competition.

For Lincoln, Sally Newton bt Mandy Son 2 up; Heather Templeton bt Cathy Seo 6/5; Keziah Herd bt Tina Park 3/1 and Lois Anderson bt Anna Min 1 up.

Lincoln team from left to right: Lois Anderson, Keziah Herd, Sally Newton, Heather Templeton, Nancy Moroney, Jan Latham and Sharon Lemon.

The 6’s Final between Clearwater and McLeans Island was also a very tight

Rakaia/Ashburton

Combined Triumph in Veterans Pennant Competition

After four rounds of competition, Rakaia/Ashburton Combined and Temuka were level on 31 points, setting up an exciting final round at Geraldine Golf Club.

The Rakaia/Ashburton team of Mary Lou Watson, Kerry Pevy, Wendy Watson and Sally Smith made a strong statement with a 12–0 win over Waimate, lifting

them to 43 points. The Temuka team of Lynn Stratford, Anna McSweeney, Yvonne McCully and Linda Greenall also finished with an impressive 11–1 win over Tinwald/Mayfield, bringing their total to 42 points, narrowly missing out on the title. Both teams delivered standout performances, but Rakaia/Ashburton Combined edged ahead to secure the win.

match, with one match going to the penultimate hole and another being halved at the 18th before the reigning champions for the past two years Clearwater made it a three-peat in the competition and defeated McLeans Island 3.5-2.5.

For Clearwater, Philippa Cooke bt Judy Smith 6/4; Wendy Swanson halved with Sue Collins; Sandra Howat lost to Haley Evans 5/4; Sue Clements bt Linda Stanley 3/2; Sandy Stewart lost to Ailex Barnett

The Clearwater team (above) from back left are Wendy Swanson, Sue Clements, Sandra Howat, Sandy Stewart, Ann Turton, Pam Bowden, Sylvia Anderson and Pip Nielsen. Seated from left are, Beryl Ludgater, Anne Hodgins-Jones, Christine Plimmer (Manager) and Philippa Cooke.

2/1 and Anne Hodgins-Jones bt Marlene Barnes 7/5.

Tinwald Combined has claimed the 2025 Silver Pennant title after a sudden-death play-off against Timaru/Temuka

The final round of the Silver Pennant competition delivered a thrilling finish, with Tinwald Combined holding a narrow two-point lead over Timaru/ Temuka after four rounds. Fittingly, the two teams faced each other in the last round.

Timaru/Temuka recorded a 7-5 win over Tinwald Combined, leaving both teams equal on points at the end of

the five rounds. This called for a sudden-death play-off between the number one and two players from each side to determine the winner.

Tinwald Combined secured victory on the first play-off hole. Tinwald Combined won one singles match and the 4BBB match in the play-off. The other singles matches was halved.

South Island Age Group

tago’s Anahera Koni and Yoonae Jeong at the South Island Age Groups played recently at Coringa Golf Club.

Anahera finished in a tie for 2nd place on 5 over in the U16 Girls division.

Yoonae finished in 2nd place on 4 under in the U19 Girls division.

Southland Handicap Pennants

Southland Handicap Pennants teams was recently played at the Gore Golf Club.

Riversdale Golf Club team for taking out the Handicap Pennants competition this year! With the Greenacres Country Club Country Club team in 2nd place.